Kent is a county situated in southeast of London. To reach the furthest towns such as Dover and Margate takes less than two hours from central London, and it is perfect place for a day excursion and a short trip for Londoners. There are also many European tourists coming through Channel Tunnel, and we saw many cars from Netherlands, Germany and Belgium around there. Not many from closest neighbor France – probably French would prefer lying down on the beach and getting tan to going around chilly and cloudy British isle.

The first stop for our trip this time is the Leeds Castle, setting on two islands and one of England’s most picturesque castles, often described as the ‘loveliest castle in the world.’ Dating back to 1119, it has been home to royalty and nobles, as well as being used as a garrison, a prison, and a convalescent home. The last private owner of the castle was Lady Baillie, who purchased it in 1926 and refurbished its interior to transform the castle into an elegant country residence. She generously opened this gorgeous residence to the public in 1976.

Other than the magnificent castle and beautiful garden, the castle grounds have many other attractions, though some of which are not of our interests: a restaurant, kiosks and souvenir shops; an aviary housing over 100 species of birds from all over the world; a maze with a grotto; UK’s only museum of dog collars; kids’ playgrounds; its own vineyard; and even a golf course, though it is ugly to see it right next to the castle. There are also the Black Swan (a symbol of this castle) ferry boat and the ‘Elsie’ castle train that connects the main entrance and the castle, for alternative ways to explore the estate. All these attractions don’t come cheap – £18.50@adult. We are only interested in the castle and garden,but it is worth to pay up the high price to see this beautiful castle and its estate well taken care of.